Minimal outcry over boundary change proposal

Residents have until December 23 to make a submission to the Electoral Commission about a proposal to shave off some of Waitaki’s southern boundaries and include them in the Dunedin North electorate.

Early indications are that the proposal could go ahead.

There has been no outcry from Palmerston, Moeraki, Hampden and other southern communities affected by the proposal.

Of the Waihemo Community Board members the Oamaru Mail contacted, only Ken Brown seemed totally opposed.

“I live in Waitaki, pay my rates in Waitaki, vote in Waitaki local body elections. As with others I have spoken to, I would like to continue voting in the general election in Waitaki.

“Dunedin is the city to the south that we have little to do with.”

Fellow community board member, Moeraki-based Jane Carlyon, said she had no comment at present.

“I am new to the community board and interested people are able to make their own submissions.”

Waitaki District councillor Kathy Dennison also had no comment. The Mail contacted the other Waihemo Community Board members Geoff Foote (Flag Swamp), Heather McGregor (Palmerston) and Paul Roy (Moonlight Valley).

Jacqui Dean, Waitaki MP since 2005, told the Oamaru Mail she was not satisfied with the proposal and urged people to make a submission with the Electoral Commission.